Devastation to revitalization: Birmingham commemorates three years since Pratt City tornadoes

Mayor William Bell shows off a future plan for the area at a tornado commemoration service, Celebrate Birmingham, Tragedy to Triumph, held Friday April 27, 2012 in Pratt City, Ala. The area was devastated by the April 27, 2011 tornadoes. (The Birmingham News FILE/ Hal Yeager)

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Saturday will be a day to commemorate the destruction, rebuilding and hope for resurgence in Birmingham's Pratt City community three years after tornadoes devastated the area.

The city of Birmingham will hold a day of commemoration activities in the western neighborhood including music, entertainment, activities and games for youth, emergency preparedness training workshops and seminars for building preserving wealth. The activities are presented by Mayor William Bell and Councilman Marcus Lundy.

The "Tragedy to Triumph" event begins at 8 a.m. at the corner of Hibernia and Dugan Avenue, an epicenter of destruction three years ago.

"We have not forgotten the devastation that happened in this area. Over the past three years, we have made tremendous progress in rebuilding and revitalizing the community and we will continue to work to ensure that these communities and the citizens receive the best services possible," said William Bell said in a statement today.

Both new Pratt City resident and storm survivors will take the stage throughout the day to tell their stories. The newly rebuilt library will have an open house and activities for kids starting in the morning.

Saturday's commemoration begins with a ribbon cutting for the new fire station and senior housing. Groups including Metro Changers will be in the neighborhood all day with projects based at 301 Maple Avenue.